Tropical cyclone bears down on Australia coast

Australians

in the north east of the country are bracing for a severe tropical cyclone, with authorities warning of flash flooding and winds.

Cyclone Owen has been strengthening off the north coast of Queensland state, and is expected to reach category four — defined as a severe tropical cyclone with very destructive winds — early today morning.

Winds up to 200 kilometres per hour are expected as the cyclone reaches land near the border of the Northern Territory and Queensland. (AFP)